Cleaning implement with illuminated spray

ABSTRACT

A cleaning implement. The cleaning implement has at least one nozzle to spray liquid onto a target surface, such as a floor. At least one light is provided. The light illuminates the spray, providing qualitative notice to the user where the spray occurs and qualitatively the amount of liquid dispensed. The spray and light may be concurrently activated by a common switch.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to illuminated spray cleaning implements.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cleaning implements are well known in the art. Particularly, floorcleaning implements have been used which dispense a fluid onto thetarget surface. The fluid solubilizes debris on the floor for laterscrubbing and/or removal from the floor. Other treatments may includepolishing, disinfecting, etc., all of which are collectively referred toas cleaning.

Fluids sprayed from a cleaning implement include any fluid usable totreat a target surface. Typical fluids include cleaning fluids,disinfectants, perfumes, etc. A suitable cleaning fluid may be madeaccording to commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 6,380,151.

Upon wetting the target surface with the fluid, the user may removedebris with a disposable cloth. The cleaning sheet may be removablyattached to the head, and particularly to the underside of the head.Suitable cleaning sheets include nonwovens, microfiber, yarns, formedpolymeric films, superabsorbent gelling materials; compostablematerials, such as PLA, combinations thereof, etc. Suitable cleaningsheets may be made according to the teachings of commonly assigned U.S.Pat. Nos. 6,797,357; 6,936,330; D489,537; D499,887; 5,960,508;6,003,191; 6,048,123; 6,101,661 and/or 6,601,261.

The cleaning sheet may be disposable, i.e. discarded after being soiled.A disposable cleaning sheet may be discarded after a single use.Alternatively, the cleaning sheet may laundered and restored, forsubsequent reuse. For example, a microfiber cleaning sheet may be usedmore than once. After subsequent reuse, a durable cleaning sheet maythen be discarded.

The cleaning sheet may be removably attached to the head using hook andloop fasteners, resiliently deformable grippers, adhesive, cohesion,magnets, spring loaded clips, etc. Suitable grippers may be madeaccording to the teachings of commonly assigned U.S. Pat. Nos.6,305,046; 6,484,346 and/or 6,651,290.

Cleaning implements which dispense fluid from a single nozzle are wellknown in the art, as illustrated by commonly assigned U.S. Pat. Nos.5,888,006; 5,988,920; 6,206,058; 6,217,889; 6,386,392; 6,663,306;6,722,806 and 7,172,099. When using a single nozzle, typically the fluidspray pattern diverges as fluid is expelled from the nozzle. The typicalpattern sprayed from a single nozzle cleaning implement is a fan or coneshape. The art also includes plural nozzle implements, as illustrated byU.S. Pat. Nos. 3,219,276; 6,540,424; 6,595,712; 6,976,802; 7,264,413 andcommonly as signed U.S. Pat. No. 8,186,898.

But it is helpful for the user to see where the spray is deposited. Ifthe spray is deposited too heavily, under saturation of the cloth mayoccur. If the spray is deposited in the wrong place, debris may not besolubilized. UV radiation is suggested in U.S. Pat. No. 9,351,626. Butthis radiation is not visible to the eye and does not visually assistthe user in the cleaning process. CN 206324739 teaches a vacuum cleanerwith an illuminating lamp, but does not teach how to best incorporate aspray.

It can be helpful to illuminate the floor or other target surface beingcleaned. But if the illumination is on too long, battery life isdepleted. If the illumination is not present at the proper time,efficacious cleaning does not occur. For example, if the spray patternis not illuminated but the floor is illuminated post-spray, thenimproper spray, and thus poor cleaning, may result.

Accordingly, this invention is directed to the problem of visiblyilluminating spray on a target surface.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention comprises a head for a cleaning implement or a cleaningimplement having such a head. The head has a longitudinal centerline andcomprises: a front, a bottom for removably receiving a cleaning sheet,and at least one nozzle juxtaposed with said front of said head fordispensing a liquid therefrom in response to activation by a switch, theswitch being connectable to a power supply, and at least one lightjuxtaposed with the nozzle, the light providing illumination of sprayfrom the nozzle in response to activation of the switch. Theillumination preferably intercepts the spray upon dispensing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a cleaning implement according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 1B is a top plan view of the cleaning implement of FIG. 1A, havingthe reservoir omitted for clarity.

FIG. 2A is a schematic front view of a head according to the presentinvention having two nozzles which spray outwardly and two inwardlyoriented outboard lights.

FIG. 2B is a schematic top plan view of an exemplary spray pattern,having three nozzles which spray forwardly, the two outboard nozzleshaving forward illumination disposed outboard of the lights, the centernozzle having no illumination.

FIG. 2C is a schematic top plan view of an exemplary spray pattern,having three nozzles, two outboard nozzles which spray inwardly andhaving outwardly oriented illumination disposed inboard of the lights,and a center forward spray nozzle having dual light forwardillumination.

FIG. 3 is a fragmentary schematic view of an implement according to thepresent invention with a circuit diagram.

FIG. 4. Is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a floorcleaning implement having a light and nozzle on the body of theimplement.

FIG. 5A is a side elevation view of an alternative embodiment of animplement suitable for holding a duster and having a finger sprayer, theduster and user's finger shown in phantom.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of animplement suitable for holding a duster to be used for dry dusting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the cleaning implement 10 according to thepresent invention may comprise a head 20, a handle 12 and a pole 14therebetween. The pole 14 and head 20 may be connected by a u-joint, asis known in the art. The implement 10 may further comprise a body 18mounted on the pole 14 as shown, or the components of the body 18 may beintegrated into the head 20. The head 20 may comprise one or morenozzles 30 for dispensing fluid therefrom and one or more lights 31.

Each nozzle 30 may have a dedicated light 31. Alternatively, a singlenozzle 30 may have plural lights 31, or a single light 31 may bediffused to intercept plural nozzles 30. Illumination from the lights 31intercepts spray from the nozzles 30, so that the user can more easilyperceive the spray during the cleaning process. Illumination from thelights 31 is schematically represented throughout as a dotted line, itbeing understood the illumination may be specular or diffuse, asdesired. The nozzles 30 and lights 31 may be referred to herein ineither the singular or plural senses, it being understood that where asingle nozzle 30 or light 31 is disclosed, plural lights 31 or nozzles30 may be used and vice versa.

The head 20 may comprise attachments for removably receiving a cleaningsheet. The head 20 and or body 18 may comprise a reservoir 40 forreceiving a fluid to treat the target surface and other components asmay be helpful. The body 18 may comprise a pump, a motor 38 therefor,batteries 42 to power the motor 38 and lights 31 if line current is notused, or an inlet for the power cord if line current is utilized.Battery 42 power is preferred for portability and maneuverability of theimplement 10.

The lights 31 and pump motor 38 may have a common power supply orindividual power supplies. There may also be provision for communicationof control signals between the head 20 and body 18 as illustrated incommonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 6,579,023.

The pump motor 38 and at least one light 31 may be controlled by acommon switch 15. Preferably depressing or otherwise activating theswitch 15 momentarily dispenses fluid from at least one nozzle 30 andconcurrently illuminates all of the available lights 31.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the implement 10 is battery 42powered and has a single switch, which is a normally open switch 15.Depressing the switch 15 simultaneously activates the pump motor 38 andthe lights 31. Spray and illumination both occur simultaneously duringthe time the switch 15 is depressed. The illumination from the light 31intercepts the spray from the nozzle 30, so that the user can see wherethe spray occurs. When the switch 15 is released, the illumination andspray both stop. This arrangement provides the benefit that the user cansee the spray when needed but conserves battery 42 power during thepost-spray cleaning.

In use, a user removably attaches a cleaning sheet to the bottom 24 ofthe head 20 of the cleaning implement 10, and fills or installs areservoir 40 of the desired liquid. The user depresses or otherwiseactivates the normally open switch 15. Upon activation, the circuit isenergized and the user simultaneously sprays the liquid onto the targetsurface from the nozzles 30 and illuminates the spray from the LEDlights 31. Optionally and preferably the LED lights 31 illuminate thetarget surface. More preferably the LED lights 31 illuminate the targetsurface and spray. When the user judges adequate quantity and placementof spray has occurred, the switch is deactivated 15. The spray andillumination may simultaneously and automatically stop. The user thencleans the portion of the target surface which has been sprayed.

The handle 12 may provide for ergonomic manipulation of the implement10. An on-off switch may be disposed on the handle 12, body 18, head 20or pole 14. While a stand-up implement 10 suitable for a standing useris illustrated, the invention is not so limited. As used herein, astand-up implement 10 has a configuration suitable for use by a standingadult user without undue bending or manipulation when using theimplement 10 to clean a floor. Alternatively, the pole 14 may beshortened or eliminated, and/or the handle 12 configured for hand-heldergonomics or for use on one's hands and knees.

As used herein horizontal refers to the primary direction of themovement of the head 20 of the implement 10 along a horizontal targetsurface and which occurs within the plane of the target surface.Vertical refers to the direction perpendicular to the target surface andhorizontal direction, and which spaces apart the top surface 22 andbottom surface 24 of the head 20. The width of the implement 10 refersto the left—right direction during use. The front—back direction isperpendicular thereto and parallel to the target surface. The implement10 may have a longitudinal centerline which divides the implement 10into two halves, in the front-back direction.

Examining the components in more detail, the head 20 may comprise agenerally upwardly facing top surface 22 and a bottom surface 24 opposedthereto. The head 20 may have a front edge. The width of the front edgeof the head 20 is defined by two side edges, with one side edge beingdisposed on each side of the longitudinal centerline. The width of thefront edge may be divided into four quadrants, two inboard quadrant andtwo outboard quadrants, with one inboard quadrant and one outboardquadrant being disposed on each side of the longitudinal centerline. Thehead 20, and particularly the bottom surface 24 thereof, may moverelative to the target surface to be cleaned.

The target surface may be a floor, and more particularly a hard surfacefloor, such as tile, hardwood, linoleum, etc. A cleaning sheet may beattached to the bottom surface 24, using attachments as are known in theart.

Exemplary attachments include deformable grippers, etc. Deformablegrippers may be used to attach the cleaning sheet, because such anattachment works with a variety of sheet materials, does not requireextra manufacturing steps in the sheet (such as the addition ofadhesive) and may last for the life of the implement 10. While uniformand substantially identical attachments are typically used, theinvention is not so limited. The attachments may comprise two or moredifferent attachment types. Three or more attachments may be used. Iffour attachments are utilized, they may be disposed in a rectangularpattern comprising two front attachments and two rearward attachments.One or more of the attachments may be disposed on the top surface 22 ofthe head 20 and generally face away from the bottom surface 24 of thehead 20 and target surface during cleaning. This disposition ofattachments provides the benefit of convenient access thereto.

Alternatively or additionally, the attachments may comprise a hook andloop system as is known in the art. The bottom of the head 20 may betotally or partially covered with hooks. The cloth may comprise loops.By engaging the hooks into the loops, the cloth may be releasablyattached to the head 20. If desired, the implement 10 may furthercomprise an adapter plate to allow different sizes and types of clothsto be utilized, as illustrated by commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No.6,842,936.

The reservoir 40 may be detachable and replaced as the contents aredepleted. A reservoir 40 may be removably attached to the implement 10using a dedicated sleeve 32. The reservoir 40 may be inverted andinserted into the sleeve 32, so that fluid flows from the reservoir 40.Alternatively, the reservoir 40 may be may be permanently attached tothe implement 10 and refilled as necessary.

If a dedicated sleeve 32 is utilized, the sleeve 32 may have a release34. The release 34 allows the reservoir 40 to be removed from the sleeve32 when the contents are depleted or as otherwise desired. The release34 may be disposed on the top of the sleeve 32. This position providesfor ergonomic convenience, so that manipulation of the release 34 doesnot require the user to bend over to reach the lower portions of theimplement 10.

The release 34 may serve as a push button mechanism, or other releasablelatching mechanism, to allow removal of the bottle or other reservoirdevice from the sleeve 32. As the consumer pushes down on the pushbutton, or other latch mechanism of the release 34, such downward motionis converted to a lateral motion of a moving member. The moving memberengages a complementary portion of the reservoir in a first position anddisengages from such portion in a second position. The manipulation ofthe release 34 engages and disengages the moving member from thecomplementary portion of the reservoir.

While a single reservoir 40 is shown, one of skill will recognize theinvention is not so limited. The implement 10 may comprise pluralreservoirs 40. The plurality of reservoirs 40 may contain the same fluidtherein, thus providing greater quantity than a single reservoir 40.Alternatively, the reservoirs 40 may comprise different fluids. Thedifferent fluids may be dispensed sequentially, or a particular fluidmay be dispensed as needed for a particular task. If the reservoirs 40comprise different fluids, the fluids may be co-dispensed, to allowmixing at the point of use on the target surface.

Fluid may be dispensed from the reservoir 40 using a manual pump. Such areservoir 40 may be disposed on the head 20 and the pump controlledremotely from the handle 12 or pole 14, as illustrated in U.S. Pat. Nos.6,467,983; 6,655,866 and/or 6,659,670.

If desired, fluid may be dispensed from the reservoir 40 using anautomatic pump. An automatic pump is driven by a motor 38. The motor 38is powered from an external source, such as batteries 42, line current,etc. The batteries 42 and/or pump may be disposed in the head 20, body18, elsewhere on the pole 14 or combinations thereof. For example, thebatteries 42 may be disposed on the body 18, while the motor 38 and pumpare disposed on the head 20, or all three components may be disposed onthe body 18 or head 20. An implement 10 having a replaceable reservoir40 and powered pump may be made according to the teaching of commonlyassigned U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,888,006; 5,988,920; 6,142,750; 6,206,058;6,321,941; 6,328,543; 6,386,392; 6,491,069; 6,579,023; 6,814,519;6,842,936; 7,172,099 and/or 7,187,537.

Alternatively, fluid may be dispensed from the reservoir 40 using agravity fed system. A gravity fed implement 10 may have the reservoir 40mounted above and in fluid communication with one or more spray nozzles30. Fluid flows from the reservoir 40 to the nozzles 30 under theinfluence of gravity. The flow may be controlled by shutoff valves, asis known in the art. A gravity fed implement 10 having plural nozzles 30may be made according to the teachings of U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,540,424;6,953,299; 6,964,535 and/or 7,004,658.

The fluid may flow from the reservoir 40 though a flow path to one ormore nozzles 30 for dispensing onto the target surface. A check valvemay be disposed in the flow path to prevent back flow between thenozzles 30. The check valve may have a single inlet and plural outlets.The inlet may receive fluid from the reservoir 40. The outlets maydirect the fluid to the nozzles 30.

Referring back to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the implement 10 may comprise aplurality of nozzles 30. The nozzles 30 are shown to be disposed ontothe head 20 of the implement 10. However, one of skill will recognizethe invention is not so limited. The nozzles 30 may be mounted onto thehandle 14, body 18, head 20 or a combination thereof. If the nozzles 30are disposed on the head 20 of the implement 10, the nozzles 30 may bejuxtaposed with the front face thereof. If the nozzles 30 are disposedon the front face of the head 20, the nozzles 30 may be recessed behindthe front face. This arrangement provides the benefit that the nozzles30 are protected if the front edge of the implement 10 should strike awall or other solid object.

Likewise, the lights 31 may be recessed from the front of the head 20,for protection. If desired, one or more nozzles 30 and one or morelights 321 may be disposed in a common socket, for precaution from thefront edge of the head 20.

The at least one nozzle 30 may dispense fluid in a spray, mist, stream,fan or other desired pattern, collectively referred to herein as aspray. Each nozzle 30 may be oriented at a particular azimuthal anglerelative to the longitudinal centerline and/or the horizontal plane. Theorientation of a nozzle 30 is determined by the orientation of thecenterline of that nozzle 30. At least one nozzle 30 may be disposed oneach side of the longitudinal centerline, and spaced equally orunequally therefrom.

A mist is a preferred for factor to dispense fluid from the at least onenozzle 30. A mist provides for even distribution, without saturation ofthe floor. But a pump which provides a mist may not provide aconcomitant audible signal to the user. Such audible signal canqualitatively indicate how much fluid is being dispensed.

The lights 31 according to the present invention advantageouslyilluminate a mist, and thereby provide qualitative indication to theuser in the absence of an audible signal. Eliminating the audible signaladvantageously provides for quieter operation.

The at least one nozzle 30 may be oriented towards the longitudinalcenterline and spray fluid forward and towards the respective oppositeside edge. The spray pattern of the fluid may be contained within thewidth of the head 20, if the spray from each nozzle 30 remains within aforward extension of the respective opposite side edge. Further eachnozzle 30 may have an included spray angle for depositing the desiredspray pattern. Each nozzle 30 may be oriented towards the longitudinalcenterline at an angle of at least 10, 15 or 20 degrees, but not morethan 30, 25 or 20 degrees. A nozzle 30 may have a symmetric includedspray angle of at least 40, 50 or 60 degrees, but not more than 80, 70or 60 degrees. Each nozzle 30 may be oriented not more than plus orminus 10, 5 or zero degrees relative to the horizontal.

As a non-liming prophetic example, in implement 10 may be providedhaving two nozzles 30 azimuthally oriented inward about 40-45 degreesrelative to the longitudinal centerline. Each nozzle may have anincluded angle of spray of about 80-85 degrees and spray forward adistance of at least about 50 cm. The nozzles 30 may spray fromhorizontal to vertically upwards 5 or 10 degrees as desired. Such anarrangement may prophetically provide the uniform spray pattern whichprovides relatively greater residence time for more debris on the targetsurface. The nozzle geometry may be adjusted to prevent spray fromdribbling on the front face of the head 20 while interceptingillumination from the lights 31.

One nozzle 30 may be disposed on each outboard quadrant of the frontface of the head 20. This arrangement provides a geometry where thenozzles 30 are spaced apart, as measured between nozzle 30 orifices, adistance of at least 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 or 60 cm ormore. Such a geometry provides the benefit of more area coverage byfluid sprayed from the pair of nozzles 30. Additionally, one or morenozzles 30 may be juxtaposed with or coincident the longitudinalcenterline. Thus, a symmetric spray pattern implement 10 may have twonozzles 30, one disposed on each side of the longitudinal centerline,three nozzles 30 if a nozzle 30 is added to the longitudinal centerline,four nozzles 30 if two are disposed on each side of the longitudinalcenterline, five nozzles 30 if one is added to the longitudinalcenterline, etc.

If desired, each nozzle 30 may have an asymmetric spray pattern. Theasymmetric pattern may provide greater spray near the outer edges of thehead 20 than near the longitudinal centerline. Such a nozzle may have anasymmetric opening, allowing greater flow to occur juxtaposed with theouter edges of the spray pattern. This distribution of the spray mayprophetically provide a visual cue to the user where the boundaries ofthe spray hit the target surface. If the boundaries of the spraygenerally correspond to the width of the head 20, the user mayprophetically have the added convenience of cleaning a more uniformdistribution of cleaning fluid directly in front of the head 20 and onthe area sought to be cleaned.

This differential spray pattern provides the benefit that the heavierdeposition of fluid near the outer edges along the width of the head 20provides a visual clue to the user where the fluid is deposited. Bydepositing the fluid where debris is disposed on the target surface, theuser can spray more fluid on such debris, and increase the residencetime of such fluid on the debris. The spray pattern may be determined byplacing the implement 10 on a horizontal surface and disposing a pieceof brown kraft paper in front of the implement 10. The spray isdeposited on the kraft paper and the spray pattern determined by thedarkened/wetted regions thereof.

If desired, the implement 10 may further comprise an abrasive patch 60.The abrasive patch 60 may comprise any material which acts to removedebris without damaging the target surface. Such a patch 60 may comprisea blend of adhesively bonded nylon and polyester fibers, as is known inthe art. This geometry provides an advantageous system for removal ofdebris from the target surface. The implement 10 may optionally comprisea suction nozzle and vacuum and/or a rotatable beater bar for collectingdebris removed from the target surface.

Referring to FIGS. 2A-2C, the lights 31 may be fluorescent, incandescentor preferably LED, as are known in there art. The lights 31 may have bepure white or have a slightly bluish hue with a color temperature of7500-8500K. The lights 31 particularly may have a wavelength in thevisible spectrum, so the user can see the spray in use. The lights 31may have a diameter of 2 to 4 mm, activate upon forward voltage of 4 to7 volts, a 50% included cone angle of 30 to 40 degrees and emit from5000 to 8000 med. Suitable LED lights are sold by EverluckOptoelectronic Technology (ShenZhen) Co. of Shenzhen, China under partnumber LR-CW300R100.

It is preferred that the cone of the lights 31 intercept the sprayduring use and illuminate the spray with visible light (400-700 nm),preferably white light. Illuminating the spray unexpectedly highlightsthe liquid deposited during the cleaning process.

Referring to FIG. 3 the circuit may preferably have a normally openswitch 15 (the switch 15 being shown in the closed position forillustration), a pump motor 38 and at least one light 31 disposed inseries. This arrangement provides the benefit of conserving battery 42life, so that the lights 31 are only illuminated when most necessary,i.e. during spraying. Alternatively, plural, dedicated switches 15 maybe used to independently control the lights 31 and pump motor 38. Thisarrangement provides the benefit that the at least one light 31 canremain on to illuminate the floor after spraying and during subsequentcleaning, particularly if a normally closed switch 15 is used for thelights 31.

Alternatively, the lights 31 may have a delay modulator 31M. The delaymodulator 31M automatically keeps the lights 31 illuminated for 3, 6, 9,12, 15 or more seconds after the user releases the normally open switch15. This arrangement provides the benefit that the lights 31 provideillumination after spraying but do not use undue battery 42 power.

Referring to FIG. 4, in another embodiment the at least one nozzle 30and/or at least one light 31 may be mounted on the body 18. Thisarrangement prophetically provides the benefit that more illumination ofthe spray and the floor occurs, due to the greater area swept by theillumination of the light[s] 31.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-5B, the cleaning article may comprise a laminateof tow fibers and nonwovens, as is known in the art. Such cleaningarticles are commonly referred to as dusters and used for dusting asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,813,801; and commonly assigned U.S. Pat.No. 8,756,746 and commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 8,931,132.

Such cleaning articles typically have one or more sleeves for attachmentto a complementary cleaning implement 10H. Such a cleaning implement 10Hmay have a handle 12 and tines 18T in pivoting relationship as disclosedin U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,657,515 and 9,392,923 or in fixed relationship asdisclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 8,578,564.

In such an embodiment, and in any of the embodiments described herein,the cleaning implement 10H may have a pump 36 which may be a triggersprayer pump 36, finger pump 36 or other manually operated pump 36. Thepump 36 operation may momentarily close a normally open switch 15,illuminating the target surface during spraying. Again, a separateswitch 15, independently operable relative to the manually actuated pump36, may be used to illuminate the target surface. Again, the light 31intercepts the spray from the manual pump 36.

Alternatively, the cleaning implement 10H for use with a duster may havea handle 12 and tines 18T, and not have a pump 36 or spray nozzles 30,and still have one or more lights 31. This embodiment provides thebenefit of axial illumination for small spaces and/or illumination belowthe duster for direct contact with the target surface. In yet anotherembodiment, the cleaning implement 10 may prophetically comprise a mitt.

Referring back to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C and 4, the invention is not limitedto nozzle 30 and light 31 combinations which intersect in aninward/outward azimuthal configuration, or forward configuration. Thenozzle 30 and light 31 may be equally spaced from the bottom 24 of thehead 20, may be vertically stacked, diagonally stacked and anycombination thereof on either or both of the body 18 and head 20. Thenozzle 30 and light 31 may be separated with one on the head 20 and theother on the body 18.

The nozzle 30 and light 31 may be oriented mutually parallel, it stillbeing preferred that diffusion from the light intercept the spray duringoperation without regard to specific angular relationships and placementbetween the nozzle 30 and light 31. In a less preferred embodimentillumination from the light 31 need not intercept spray from the nozzle31.

The cleaning implements 10, 10H disclosed herein may be used in, but notlimited to, any of the following combinations.

Combinations

-   -   A. A head for a cleaning implement, said head having a        longitudinal centerline and comprising:        a front, a bottom for removably receiving a cleaning sheet, and        at least one nozzle juxtaposed with said front of said head for        dispensing a liquid therefrom in response to activation by a        switch, said switch being connectable to a power supply, and at        least one light juxtaposed with said nozzle, said light        providing illumination of spray from said nozzle in response to        activation of said switch, said illumination intercepting said        liquid upon dispensing from said nozzle.    -   B. A head according to paragraph A comprising two nozzles, one        said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal        centerline, and two lights, one said light disposed on each side        of said longitudinal centerline, whereby illumination from each        light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when said switch        is activated.    -   C. A head according to paragraphs A and B comprising two        nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said        longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said light disposed        on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and wherein said        nozzles spray liquid inwardly towards said longitudinal        centerline, whereby illumination from each said light intercepts        spray from a respective nozzle when said switch is activated.    -   D. A head according to paragraphs A, B and C comprising two        nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said        longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said light disposed        on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and wherein said        nozzles spray liquid inwardly towards said longitudinal        centerline, one said light being disposed inboard of each said        nozzle, whereby illumination from each said light intercepts        spray from a respective nozzle when said switch is activated.    -   E. A head according to paragraphs A, B, C and D comprising at        least one tine for removably receiving a sleeved cleaning        article thereon, and a handle joined to said head, a manual pump        disposed within said handle and in fluid communication with said        nozzle, whereby illumination from said light intercepts spray        from a said respective nozzle when said pump is activated.    -   F. A head according to paragraphs A, B, C, D and E comprising        two forwardly spraying nozzles, one said forwardly spraying        nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal        centerline, and four lights, a pair of said lights disposed on        each side of said longitudinal centerline, one said light being        disposed on each side of and flanking a respective nozzle,        whereby illumination from each said light intercepts spray from        a respective nozzle when a single switch is activated.    -   G. A head according to paragraphs A, B, C, D, E and F comprising        two nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said        longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said light disposed        on each side of said longitudinal centerline, whereby        illumination from each light intercepts spray from a respective        nozzle when said switch is activated, said lights and said        nozzles each being equally spaced from said bottom of said head.    -   H. A head according to paragraphs A, B, C, D, E, F and G        comprising two nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each        side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said        light disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and        outboard of a respective nozzle, whereby illumination from each        said light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when said        switch is activated, said lights and said nozzles each being        equally spaced from said bottom of said head.    -   I. A head according to paragraphs A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H        comprising two nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each        side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said        light disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline,        each said light and respective nozzle being disposed in a        respective socket and thereby recessed from said front of said        head, whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from        a respective nozzle when said switch is activated, said sockets        each being equally spaced from said bottom of said head.    -   J. A cleaning implement having a longitudinal centerline and a        transverse width perpendicular thereto, said implement        comprising:        a head for removably receiving a cleaning sheet, said cleaning        sheet being configured to contactingly cleaning a target        surface;        a body articulably joined to said head;        a handle joined to said body whereby said device is configured        for floor cleaning;        a reservoir disposed on said body for dispensing liquid to at        least one nozzle through a flow path in fluid communication from        said reservoir to said at least one nozzle;        a switch for dispensing liquid from said reservoir in response        to activation thereof; and        a light functionally juxtaposed with said at least one nozzle        whereby illumination from said at least one light intercepts        spay upon dispensing from said nozzle.    -   K. An implement according to paragraph J further comprising a        pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir to said at least        one nozzle, an electric motor operably connected to said pump,        and a power supply for providing energy to said motor, said        motor being controlled by said switch.    -   L. An implement according to paragraphs J and K further        comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir to        said at least one nozzle, an electric motor operably connected        to said pump, and a power supply for providing energy to said        motor, said motor and said light being controlled by said        switch.    -   M. An implement according to paragraphs J, K and L further        comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir to        said at least one nozzle, an electric motor operably connected        to said pump, and a DC battery power supply for providing energy        to said motor, said motor and said light being controlled by        said switch and a modulator for delaying deactivation of said        light when said switch is deactivated, said modulator, said        light and said motor being electrically disposed in series.    -   N. An implement according to paragraphs J, K, L and M further        comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir to        said at least one nozzle, an electric motor operably connected        to said pump, and a power supply for providing energy to said        motor, said motor and said light being controlled by said        switch, said implement comprising two nozzles and two lights        disposed on said head, one said nozzle and one said light being        disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline whereby        illumination from each said light intercepts spray from a        respective said nozzle upon activation of said switch.    -   O. An implement according to paragraphs J, K, L, M and N further        comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir to        said at least one nozzle, an electric motor operably connected        to said pump, and a power supply for providing energy to said        motor, said motor and said light being controlled by said        switch, said implement comprising at least one nozzle and at        least one light, said nozzle being disposed on said body,        whereby illumination from said light intercepts spray from said        nozzle upon activation of said switch.    -   P. A cleaning implement having a longitudinal centerline and a        transverse width perpendicular thereto, said implement        comprising:        a head for contactingly cleaning a target surface;        a body articulably joined to said head,        a reservoir disposed on said body for dispensing liquid to at        least one nozzle through a flow path in fluid communication from        said reservoir to said at least one nozzle;        a pump for pumping liquid from said reservoir through said        nozzle to spray liquid therefrom;        a motor for operating said pump;        a light functionally juxtaposed with said at least one nozzle        whereby illumination from said at least one light intercepts        spay upon dispensing from said nozzle.        a battery for providing power to said motor and said light; and        a switch for operating said motor and said light in response to        activation of said switch.    -   Q. An implement according to paragraphs K, L, M, N, O and P        wherein said at least one nozzle is disposed on said body and        said at least one light is disposed on said head.    -   R. An implement according to paragraphs K, L, M, N, O, P and Q        wherein said comprising two nozzles disposed on said head, one        said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal        centerline, and two lights disposed on said head, one said light        being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline,        whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from a        respective nozzle when said switch is activated.    -   S. An implement according to paragraphs K, L, M, N, O, P, Q and        R wherein said comprising two nozzles disposed on said head, one        said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal        centerline, and two lights disposed on said head, one said light        being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline,        whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from a        respective nozzle when said switch is activated, said switch        being a normally open switch whereby said motor and said two        lights are simultaneously activated only when said switch is        activated.    -   T. An implement according to paragraphs K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R        and S wherein said comprising two nozzles disposed on said head,        one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal        centerline, and two lights disposed on said head, one said light        being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline,        whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from a        respective nozzle when said switch is activated and further        comprising a third nozzle disposed in said longitudinal        centerline, said third nozzle not having a dedicated light        associated therewith.

The dimensions and other values disclosed herein are not to beunderstood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical valuesrecited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such value isintended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalentrange surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or relatedpatent or application, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation ofany document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect toany invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in anycombination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests ordiscloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning ordefinition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning ordefinition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, themeaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shallgovern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

1. A head for a cleaning implement, said head having a longitudinalcenterline and comprising: a front, a bottom for removably receiving acleaning sheet, and at least one nozzle juxtaposed with said front ofsaid head for dispensing a liquid therefrom in response to activation bya switch, said switch being connectable to a power supply, and at leastone light juxtaposed with said nozzle, said light providing illuminationof spray from said nozzle in response to activation of said switch, saidillumination intercepting said liquid upon dispensing from said nozzle.2. A head according to claim 1 comprising two nozzles, one said nozzlebeing disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and twolights, one said light disposed on each side of said longitudinalcenterline, whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from arespective nozzle when said switch is activated.
 3. A head according toclaim 1 comprising two nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on eachside of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said lightdisposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and wherein saidnozzles spray liquid inwardly towards said longitudinal centerline,whereby illumination from each said light intercepts spray from arespective nozzle when said switch is activated.
 4. A head according toclaim 1 comprising two nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on eachside of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said lightdisposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and wherein saidnozzles spray liquid inwardly towards said longitudinal centerline, onesaid light being disposed inboard of each said nozzle, wherebyillumination from each said light intercepts spray from a respectivenozzle when said switch is activated.
 5. A head according to claim 1comprising at least one tine for removably receiving a sleeved cleaningarticle thereon, and a handle joined to said head, a manual pumpdisposed within said handle and in fluid communication with said nozzle,whereby illumination from said light intercepts spray from a saidrespective nozzle when said pump is activated.
 6. A head according toclaim 1 comprising two forwardly spraying nozzles, one said forwardlyspraying nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinalcenterline, and four lights, a pair of said lights disposed on each sideof said longitudinal centerline, one said light being disposed on eachside of and flanking a respective nozzle, whereby illumination from eachsaid light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when a singleswitch is activated.
 7. A head according to claim 1 comprising twonozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of saidlongitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said light disposed on eachside of said longitudinal centerline, whereby illumination from eachlight intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when said switch isactivated, said lights and said nozzles each being equally spaced fromsaid bottom of said head.
 8. A head according to claim 1 comprising twonozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of saidlongitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said light disposed on eachside of said longitudinal centerline, and outboard of a respectivenozzle, whereby illumination from each said light intercepts spray froma respective nozzle when said switch is activated, said lights and saidnozzles each being equally spaced from said bottom of said head.
 9. Ahead according to claim 1 comprising two nozzles, one said nozzle beingdisposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights,one said light disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline,each said light and respective nozzle being disposed in a respectivesocket and thereby recessed from said front of said head, wherebyillumination from each light intercepts spray from a respective nozzlewhen said switch is activated, said sockets each being equally spacedfrom said bottom of said head.
 10. A cleaning implement having alongitudinal centerline and a transverse width perpendicular thereto,said implement comprising: a head for removably receiving a cleaningsheet, said cleaning sheet being configured to contactingly cleaning atarget surface; a body articulably joined to said head; a handle joinedto said body whereby said device is configured for floor cleaning; areservoir disposed on said body for dispensing liquid to at least onenozzle through a flow path in fluid communication from said reservoir tosaid at least one nozzle; a switch for dispensing liquid from saidreservoir in response to activation thereof; and a light functionallyjuxtaposed with said at least one nozzle whereby illumination from saidat least one light intercepts spray upon dispensing from said nozzle.11. An implement according to claim 10 further comprising a pump fordispensing liquid from said reservoir to said at least one nozzle, anelectric motor operably connected to said pump, and a power supply forproviding energy to said motor, said motor being controlled by saidswitch.
 12. An implement according to claim 10 further comprising a pumpfor dispensing liquid from said reservoir to said at least one nozzle,an electric motor operably connected to said pump, and a power supplyfor providing energy to said motor, said motor and said light beingcontrolled by said switch.
 13. An implement according to claim 10further comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir tosaid at least one nozzle, an electric motor operably connected to saidpump, and a DC battery power supply for providing energy to said motor,said motor and said light being controlled by said switch and amodulator for delaying deactivation of said light when said switch isdeactivated.
 14. An implement according to claim 10 further comprising apump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir to said at least onenozzle, an electric motor operably connected to said pump, and a powersupply for providing energy to said motor, said motor and said lightbeing controlled by said switch, said implement comprising two nozzlesand two lights disposed on said head, one said nozzle and one said lightbeing disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline wherebyillumination from each said light intercepts spray from a respectivesaid nozzle upon activation of said switch.
 15. An implement accordingto claim 10 further comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from saidreservoir to said at least one nozzle, an electric motor operablyconnected to said pump, and a power supply for providing energy to saidmotor, said motor and said light being controlled by said switch, saidimplement comprising at least one nozzle and at least one light, saidnozzle being disposed on said body, whereby illumination from said lightintercepts spray from said nozzle upon activation of said switch.
 16. Acleaning implement having a longitudinal centerline and a transversewidth perpendicular thereto, said implement comprising: a head forcontactingly cleaning a target surface; a body articulably joined tosaid head, a reservoir disposed on said body for dispensing liquid to atleast one nozzle through a flow path in fluid communication from saidreservoir to said at least one nozzle; a pump for pumping liquid fromsaid reservoir through said nozzle to spray liquid therefrom; a motorfor operating said pump; a light functionally juxtaposed with said atleast one nozzle whereby illumination from said at least one lightintercepts spray upon dispensing from said nozzle; a battery forproviding power to said motor and said light; and a switch for operatingsaid motor and said light in response to activation of said switch. 17.An implement according to claim 16 wherein said at least one nozzle isdisposed on said body and said at least one light is disposed on saidhead.
 18. An implement according to claim 16 wherein said comprising twonozzles disposed on said head, one said nozzle being disposed on eachside of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights disposed on saidhead, one said light being disposed on each side of said longitudinalcenterline, whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from arespective nozzle when said switch is activated.
 19. An implementaccording to claim 16 wherein said comprising two nozzles disposed onsaid head, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of saidlongitudinal centerline, and two lights disposed on said head, one saidlight being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline,whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from a respectivenozzle when said switch is activated, said switch being a normally openswitch whereby said motor and said two lights are simultaneouslyactivated only when said switch is activated.
 20. An implement accordingto claim 16 wherein said comprising two nozzles disposed on said head,one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinalcenterline, and two lights disposed on said head, one said light beingdisposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, wherebyillumination from each light intercepts spray from a respective nozzlewhen said switch is activated and further comprising a third nozzledisposed in said longitudinal (centerline) said third nozzle not havinga dedicated light associated therewith.